More Efficient Documentation for Machine Shops with Mastercam Setup Sheets
In the CNC machining software market, Mastercam is known for its reliability and versatility. In Finland, Camcut Oy has elevated Mastercam's capabilities to a new level by customizing Mastercam setup sheets to better meet the needs of Finnish machine shops. This is a great example of how educational collaboration can bring innovation and improve industrial processes. The project began in collaboration with Savonia University of Applied Sciences as part of engineering student Mikko Eskelinen's thesis. Under the guidance of Camcut Oy, a survey was conducted to gather valuable feedback from industry companies on the needs of chipping machine shops for creating setup sheets. Based on this feedback, Mastercam's default setup sheet was modified to be clearer and more comprehensive.
Clarity and Efficiency in Production
The new, modified setup sheet enables more accurate documentation of the machining program than before. It allows for the addition of information such as the client's name, programmer details, drawing and revision numbers, and the Mastercam file name. Additionally, it can include measurements of the material and blank being machined, as well as manually write instructions and notes about the machining program and add screenshots from the Mastercam screen or personal photos to clarify the machining process. The revised setup sheet includes a comprehensive breakdown of production time for different manufacturing stages of the workpiece, as well as the machining values used in toolpaths and the minimum and maximum Z-depths of the NC program. The tool list in the setup sheet provides comprehensive information about the tools and holders used in Mastercam, with their measurements in a graphical view. This reduces errors and improves efficiency.
Setup Sheets Without Manual Work or Separate Software
Camcut’s innovation saves time and effort. The Mastercam setup sheet function automatically compiles all necessary information about the workpiece being manufactured into a single document, which can be easily printed in different file formats, such as a .pdf. The setup sheet can be printed quickly and easily without needing separate software or manual data entry. The digital setup sheet printed from Mastercam can be stored in the company's production management system. The new modified setup sheet template is available for free download from Camcut's website support section.
Development for the Benefit of the Machining Industry
The new setup sheet model offers significant improvements for the Finnish machining industry. Clear and precise documentation helps machinists save time and effort and makes the flow of information in the manufacturing process a more seamless and unambiguous process. The revised setup sheet improves both production quality and efficiency, allowing companies more time to focus on their core activities, namely, producing high-quality products.
The joint development project between Camcut and Savonia University of Applied Sciences is an excellent example of how educational institutions can bring tangible improvements to practical working life. The new setup sheets give machine shop companies the opportunity to improve their competitiveness, reduce production costs, and decrease errors.
